Myanmar Photo Expedition

Myanmar is opening its doors to the world, revealing a people still tied to ancient traditions and a country bursting with cultural treasures. The combination is a photographer's dream come true. In the company of National Geographic photographer Chris Rainier, capture a candle-lighting ceremony in Yangon, monks at prayer in beautiful temples, and local musicians with their instruments. Catch the sunset on the stupa-studded plains of Bagan, and photograph fisherman poling past the floating gardens of Inle Lake.

Days 1, 2, & 3 — U.S./Yangon, Myanmar

Depart the U.S., cross the international date line, and arrive in Yangon on Day 3. Transfer to our elegant Victorian hotel, and meet fellow travelers and our National Geographic photographer for a welcome reception and dinner.
The Strand Yangon (D)

Day 4 — Yangon

Our introduction to Yangon begins at Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda, where a colossal reclining Buddha stretches more than 200 feet. Next, visit Botataung Pagoda, an unusual pagoda above a circular building, which was reconstructed after being destroyed by an Allied bomb during World War II. Examine royal artifacts at the National Museum and, in the afternoon light, photograph the gleaming stupas of Shwedagon Pagoda, a soaring, gilded pagoda tipped with more than 4,000 diamonds. Here, capture images of a candle-lighting ceremony during a special photo shoot with a small group of monks.
The Strand Yangon (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Yangon/Mandalay

A morning flight brings us to Mandalay, founded as a royal capital in 1857, now a hub of commerce and trade. Cross U Bein Bridge, a teak structure that spans nearly 4,000 feet across Taungthaman Lake and is perhaps one of the most photographed sites in Myanmar. Stop in at a silk weaving workshop and get a new angle on Mandalay's most important Buddha image at the Mahamuni Pagoda. After lunch, focus on the intricate teak carvings of the Shwenandaw Monastery and see the 729 chiseled marble slabs—each with its own stupa—of Kuthodaw Pagoda. End the day taking sunset shots from atop Mandalay Hill before continuing to Shwekyin Monastery for a private photography session with monks as they engage in a prayer ceremony.
Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Mandalay

Set out on a boat trip up the Irrawaddy River to Mingun village, documenting life along the river's edge. Exploring by oxcart, see the massive, unfinished Mingun Pagoda; the 18th-century Mingun Bell—the world's largest undamaged, working bell; and the pristine Hsinbyume Pagoda. In Sagaing, twice the capital of the Shan Kingdom, step into a silversmith's workshop to photograph artisans renowned for their engraving skills.
Mandalay Hill Resort Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Mandalay/Bagan

Fly to the ancient capital of Bagan, which flourished in the 11th and 12th centuries, when over 10,000 temples, stupas, and monasteries were built on the Bagan plain. Today, more than 2,200 of these structures—from tiny stupas to towering temples—still dot the landscape, along with many piles of ruins. Head into the vibrant Nyaung U Market, where textiles and spices lure the photographer with their textures and hues. Visit gold-plated Shwezigon Pagoda, Bagan's greatest reliquary, and examine 13th-century murals at Gubyaukgyi and Htilominlo Temples. This afternoon, take a horse-cart ride to Ananda Temple, home to four great, gilded Buddha statues. Stop in at a lacquerware workshop to take shots of artisans plying their ancient craft. As the sun sets, climb to the top of a temple to photograph the ancient ruins of Bagan illuminated by golden light. Tonight, a deputy director from the Government Department of Archaeology joins us for dinner.
Aye Yar River View Resort (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Mount Popa

Rise early to catch the evocative colors of dawn on Bagan’s temples, either shooting on foot or from the air on an optional hot-air balloon ride. Then set out on an excursion to Popa Hill, a volcanic peak that features prominently in Burmese mythology and is considered the home of powerful nats, or spirits. Spend the day exploring the area, then photograph graceful dancers in motion at a private performance during a special dinner at a temple.
Aye Yar River View Resort (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Bagan

Visit the Mon-style Manuha Temple, built by a captive king— according to legend—in 1059, and see the massive Buddha figures inside. Continue to the Nanpaya Temple, known for its elegant masonry and decorative arts. After a visit to Shwesandaw Pagoda, whose gold-clad stupa rises above Bagan's many spires, take sunset shots during a cruise on the Ayeyarwady.
Aye Yar River View Resort (B,L,D)

Day 10 — Heho/Inle Lake

Fly to Heho, the gateway to Inle Lake, and travel overland and by boat to our hotel. Skimming along the waterways in a long-tail boat, catch a first glimpse of floating gardens, stilt houses, and fishermen poling their skiffs with one leg. Capture images of these traditional fishermen plying their picturesque trade during a specially arranged photo session for our group. Then settle into your private chalet, and set out to explore this afternoon. At the Phaung Daw U Pagoda, see five Buddha images that worshippers have covered with so much gold leaf that they have lost all trace of their original forms. Stop by Ngaphechaung Monastery, set on stilts and teak planks in the lake, also known for its resident cats that have been trained by monks to perform tricks.
Inle Princess Resort (B,L,D)

Day 11 — Inle Lake

Delve into the lively bustle of the roving Fifth Day Market, and photograph the colorful headdresses, jewelry, and clothing of the hill-tribe people who come to barter here. After lunch with a local Shan businessman, explore the floating gardens and stilt villages of Inle Lake and Nampan. Watch traditional weavers use ikat dyeing techniques, visit a Burmese cigar factory, and stop in at a boat builder's workshop and a traditional forge.
Inle Princess Resort (B,L,D)

Day 12 — Heho/Yangon

Return to Yangon by air. This afternoon, stroll through the Bogyoke Aung San Market past merchants selling lacquerware, silver, textiles, and other handicrafts. Then take a photo walk through the lively food and fruit markets of Chinatown. In the early evening light, set out on a cruise on the Yangon River to photograph everyday life at the water’s edge. Gather tonight to toast your photography adventure at a farewell dinner.
The Strand Yangon (B,L,D)

Day 13 — Yangon/U.S.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
(B)